Location & How to Get There

General Cave (Beijing Mentougou) sits in a quiet mountain village called Longquanwu, near Junzhuang Town in Mentougou District. It’s about a 30-minute drive from the bustling city center, nestled between lush hills and old pine trees. To reach here, you can take the subway to Apple Garden Station (Line 1), then grab a taxi or a local bus—just tell the driver “Longquanwu” and they’ll know the way. If you’re driving, punch “Longquanwu Village” into your GPS; the roads are narrow but scenic, with mountain views all around.

Natural Scenery: Caves, Rocks, and Greenery

General Cave isn’t just one cave—it’s three connected caves carved into a limestone hill. The rocks inside are rough and cool to the touch, with some spots boasting tiny stalactites. Outside, the area is wrapped in forests, especially pretty in spring when wildflowers bloom or in autumn when maple leaves turn red. A winding path leads up the hill, where you can spot birds and breathe fresh air. It’s a great spot for photos if you love nature!

History & Culture: A Wartime Story

This place gets its name from a heroic story. During World War II, General Cave was used as a secret hospital by the Eighth Route Army. Many soldiers recovered here before returning to fight. The saddest part? A brave captain named He Mingdeng was injured here. When Japanese troops attacked, he fought back even while wounded—and died protecting others. Locals renamed the caves “General Cave” to honor his sacrifice. You’ll see a simple monument inside with photos and stories; it’s a quiet but powerful reminder of history.

Facilities for Visitors

Don’t expect luxury here—General Cave is rustic. There’s a small parking lot for cars, and a basic rest area with benches. Bring water and snacks, as there’s no café nearby. The paths are mostly dirt, so wear comfy shoes. Guided tours aren’t common, but info boards share the cave’s history in Chinese and English. If you visit on a hot day, the cool cave feels like natural air-conditioning!

What to Expect During Your Visit

A trip to General Cave takes about 1-2 hours. Start by exploring the caves—some parts are tight, so watch your head! Then hike up the trail for valley views. History buffs will love the wartime exhibits, while nature lovers can relax by the stream nearby. Beware: the area gets crowded on weekends, and there’s little shade, so mornings are best. And please—take your trash with you; this spot’s too special to litter!

Key Tips:

  • Best For: History seekers, nature lovers, and photo enthusiasts.
  • Avoid: Rainy days (caves get slippery!) or winter (it’s freezing).
  • Fun Fact: Locals say Captain He’s spirit still watches over the cave. Spooky or inspiring? You decide!